Placing the right feather in their cap
KNYSNA - On 22 September, SANParks joined forces with Featherbed Nature Reserve to extend their Women's Month programme, promoting empowerment and education among young girls.
The initiative, which took place as part of National Parks Week, aimed to inspire and engage young minds while instilling a love for nature and conservation. Seventy girls from Murray High School and Concordia High School started the day with a boat trip to the picturesque Featherbed Nature Reserve. Not only was the boat trip an exhilarating adventure, but the girls also learned about the significance of preserving and protecting natural habitats.
The girls then embarked on a nature walk through the reserve, guided by park rangers and environmental educators. The walk offered a hands-on experience, allowing the girls to observe and learn about the unique flora and fauna found within the reserve.
From identifying indigenous plant species to spotting rare birds and animals, the girls were immersed in the wonders of nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.
To conclude the day, the girls were treated to a delicious lunch and each girl was presented with a special gift as a token of remembrance provided by Dr Alice Pedro.
The initiative by SANParks and Featherbed Nature Reserve aims to cultivate a generation of young individuals who will become advocates for conservation and sustainability, by providing them with firsthand experiences in nature.
"We wish to thank SANParks BSP, Scientific services, Len du Plessis and The Featherbed Company for the generous sponsorship of the programme, as well as Michael Spies of Knysna Rotary. The whole event is a brainchild of SANParks Women's Forum and is a way of giving back to young women in underprivileged communities," says Nondumiso Mgwenya of SANParks.